PhD Studentship: Unilateralism v Multilateralism – Harnessing International Economic Policy for Sustainable Transitions University of Essex in United Kingdom

[Fully funded studentship; £20,780 for 2025-26. Additional £2,500 for training courses and £10,000 for research costs and further training.]

This fully funded PhD studentship at the University of Essex offers an exciting opportunity to explore the intersection of international economic policy and sustainable transitions. Hosted under the ‘Sustainable Transitions – Leverhulme Doctoral Training Programme’, the project investigates the costs and benefits of unilateralism versus multilateralism in the pursuit of sustainability. Recent EU initiatives, such as the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism and the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive, exemplify the use of unilateral economic instruments to influence global climate and sustainability policies. However, these approaches face resistance from governments, businesses, and international organisations, raising questions about their effectiveness and legitimacy.

The successful applicant will conduct interdisciplinary research, combining legal analysis with multi-stakeholder approaches to assess the impact of unilateral international economic policies on environmental goals. The project encourages theoretical exploration of the legitimacy and effectiveness of such regulations, considering the roles of various actors and stakeholders. Methodological training in interdisciplinary research methods and stakeholder analysis will be provided, ensuring a comprehensive skill set for tackling complex policy questions.

As part of the Sustainable Transitions training programme, doctoral scholars receive initial and ongoing training in relevant disciplines. The Proficio scheme offers £2,500 for training courses, while an additional £10,000 is available for research costs and further training. Scholars are encouraged to audit relevant masters and degree-level courses, and benefit from the support of the Sustainable Transitions management team and their supervisory team. All participants join the University of Essex ‘Centre for Environment and Society’, gaining access to events and networking opportunities.

This studentship is ideal for candidates with a background in law or international relations. Prior experience in stakeholder analysis is not required, as comprehensive training will be provided. Applicants are invited to develop their own research proposal within the broad project area, with further refinement in collaboration with supervisors. The position offers a vibrant academic environment, generous funding, and the chance to contribute to impactful research on global sustainability policy.

Applications are open until 13 April 2026. For further details and to apply, visit the University of Essex postgraduate research opportunities portal.